First words from French draft picks with their new franchises

Noa Essengue: « A legendary franchise »

The highest-drafted Frenchman this year wasted no time joining his new home. Noa Essengue (6’9″, 18) arrived in Chicago right after being drafted 12th overall. Between touring the Bulls’ facilities with his future teammate – and competitor – Matas Buzelis and a boat ride on Lake Michigan, the Orleans native spoke to local media to introduce himself. He mentioned being in contact with local legend Joakim Noah, and expressed excitement about joining « a legendary franchise with many championships and lots of history. »

About joining a young team with a fast-paced style? « That’s the style of play I love and want. » The 18-year-old power forward aims to primarily contribute with his finishing at the rim, while focusing on improving his 3-point shooting (24.3% this season).

Joan Beringer, already mentored by Rudy Gobert

Here’s another Frenchman discovering the northern United States. Joan Beringer (6’11 », 18)‘s integration with the Minnesota Timberwolves was naturally facilitated by his future mentor Rudy Gobert. Gobert called his young compatriot right after he was drafted 17th, and several times after, to welcome him and offer advice. Still in awe from his days in New York during the draft, Beringer kept smiling as he arrived in Minneapolis with fellow rookie center Rocco Zikarsky.

« You can’t realize what you’re experiencing, it’s a dream come true, an incredible feeling. During the draft, I was trying not to cry… And when I landed, many fans sent me lovely messages » described the Alsatian native on the franchise’s social media. The team’s President Tim Connelly considers him « one of the most unique players ever observed » who « has developed at an unprecedented rate. »

Nolan Traoré: rookie contract still unsigned

As for the third member of the 2006 generation, he didn’t need to take a plane. Nolan Traoré (6’3″, 19) was drafted 19th by the Brooklyn Nets… at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, his future home court. He had plenty of time to explore New York, as his official introduction took place six days after the draft. Along with the Nets’ four rookies, GM Sean Marks praised « his athleticism, speed, first step and ability to break down defenses. »

The younger brother of Armel Traoré expressed his excitement about joining « a young group that will play fast » and settling in a « beautiful city. » Note that the former Saint-Quentin player signed his rookie contract after his teammates Egor Demin, Ben Saraf and Danny Wolf. This was necessary to finalize his buyout with SQBB and obtain FIBA clearance.

Noah Penda: « A reward for all the hard work »

He also didn’t waste time joining his new franchise. The day after being drafted in the second round at 32nd, Noah Penda (6’7″, 20) was already on a plane to Orlando. With peace of mind since his contract is guaranteed despite being a second-round pick. A four-year deal with two guaranteed years (with a team option) is mentioned by Magic insider Jason Beede. The Florida franchise welcomes another European prospect, as they’re accustomed to developing (Franz Wagner, Tristan Da Silva or Goga Bitadze recently).

« Going on stage and seeing the pride in my family’s eyes was an amazing feeling. It’s a reward for all the hard work over the years » said the former Le Mans player during his introductory press conference. He’ll wear number 93 (his home department) and traveled with his entire family, who will help him settle before he leaves for Summer League.

Maxime Raynaud secures multi-year contract

As for Maxime Raynaud (7’1″, 22), he traveled the most, crossing the country. Undrafted in New York during the first round, he went to Dallas on draft night to his agency ComSport’s headquarters. Then flew to Sacramento, near his Stanford campus, where his new Kings franchise was waiting to introduce him. As we reported, a three-year contract (two guaranteed) worth $6 million was signed by the Parisian giant despite being drafted 42nd.

« Maxime has a unique profile, a combination of size and skills. We believe he still has great potential for improvement » said his future coach Doug Christie. The player himself announced his desire to « be part of the franchise’s culture and win many games. » Not easy in a franchise that has made the playoffs only once in the last 20 seasons. However, the Kings’ recent roster moves suggest they’re counting on their French rookie in the rotation next season.